From its off-piste adventures to its glitzy slope side bars and restaurants, the Austrian ski resort of Kitzbühel remains the most glamorous on the north side of the Alps. ‘Kitz’ is unique and for some people the real capital of the Alps, even due to its comparatively low altitude. The history and traditions are what make this ski town the real deal. The iconic Hahnenkamm Race attracts hundreds of thousands of people every year in January. Last winter Netflix streamed their Kitz series worldwide. We take a closer look behind the scenes.
Winter Activities
From Kitzbühel's Hahnenkamm to the Resterkogel, the 233 km of ski runs have won several awards in recent years. KitzSki is accessible via 11 feeder lifts. On the wide pistes and thrilling race courses, as well as at the snowparks, everyone will encounter the ideal conditions for a successful day of skiing. 57 cable cars and lifts will allow you to get up high in the 575 hectare ski resort. But Kitz offers also a variety of other winter sports, from hiking to cross-country skiing. It’s truly one of the best winter sports destinations in the Alps.
Where to Stay
Stanglwirt
The legendary Stanglwirt is located in Going right at the foot of the majestic 'Wilder Kaiser' mountain. You can reach the brilliant slopes of Kitzbühel within a 10-minute drive. The cuisine of the Stanglwirt serves culinary delights in their rustic lounges - from their very own farm. Get active in the multiplex Stanglwirt Sports-World which includes a private Lipizzan stud, an on-site driving range with the Golf Sport Academy, tennis centre with the internationally renowned PBI Tennis School, the hotel’s own ski school, ample fitness grounds with medical fitness facility and much more.
Kitzbühel Lodge
The exclusive Kitzbühel Lodge, a highlight of the resort, opened its doors in December 2016. The Lodge offers seven luxurious penthouses alongside all the facilities of the private member's club 'Kitzbühel Country Club'.
Seebichl
Seebichl is a striking coal-black house, perched on the hill above Lake Schwarzsee, only a short stroll to the center of town. With an atmosphere evoking memories of a rambling summer home up in the mountains, yet, Seebichl creates the most comfortable home away from home, indoors, and around the property. This is Alpine living, in the most creative and cozy sense imaginable.
Where to Lunch on the Slopes
Sonnbühel
The Sonnbühel has been a fixture on the Kitzbühel scene since it opened nearly 100 years ago, when it was the embodiment of la dolce far niente in the golden age of 1920s. Wonderfully located, super authentic and with a winning sun terrace, it is still the place to have lunch and a spot of après-ski. Feast on Sonnbühel (young bull) tartare, burrata chips and whole cochinillo pork grilled on a spit, or the sharing chateaubriand. It is a must-visit for anyone in the area.
Where to Eat
Neuwirt The best food in town — expect locally sourced dishes with a modern twist. Plus, it has a great wine list.
Auwirt Order the duck breast glazed with honey, with red cabbage and plum purée - super delicious.
Alpengasthof Hagstein his place has one of the most beautiful terraces in the region. Inside, you’ll find typical Tyrolean stuben — cosy corners, which are perfect for lounging with big groups or the family.
Hallerwirt, Aurach bei Kitzbühel
s’ Pfandl, Reith bei Kitzbühel
Zuma, Kitzbühel
Pipino’s, Kitzbühel
Après
- Tomschy, at the mountain station of the Hahnenkamm cable car. Can’t be missed. Ask for Christoph and you are in good hands.
Shopping
Annual Hahnenkamm Race
The world’s most notorious, dangerous, blood-curdling downhill racecourse for men, called the "Streif", is challenging an international roster of top athletes for an incredible weekend of ski racing each year. In 2023, this legendary race will be held for the 83rd time from January 16 to 22. Skiing the Hahnenkamm is a harrowing experience from start to finish. It is skiing’s ultimate test of guts for glory on the world’s most famous and feared ribbon of snow and ice. The slick, steep, twisty track propels the skiers up to speeds as fast as 140kph. The Mausefalle jump (‘Mousetrap’ in English), reached in just over eight seconds from the start, has a gradient of 85% and launches the racers 80 meters through the air.
When to Go
- The winter season starts early in December. Christmas, New Year's, and January are peak season when the iconic Hahnenkamm race takes place.
Kitzbühel Packing List
- Tyolean Jankerl & Dirndl for dinner. Fusalp on the slopes.
How to Get to Kitzbühel
- By air: The small private airport of St Johann is only 10 minutes drive from Kitzbühlel.
- Munich is about 2 hour, Salzburg & Innsbruck are both an hour by car.
- By rail: Kitzbühel is well connected to the Austrian railway system.
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